A rider in a helmet sitting on a quad bike at the top of a dune

Quad, buggy & 4x4

Quad Biking in the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Quad biking in Merzouga: a guided ATV ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes, 1 or 2 hours long, with a safety briefing first so beginners can join.

About 1 or 2 hours of riding, plus time for the briefing
Morning · Afternoon · Sunset
Moderate

We're still finishing the details on this page. Ask us and we'll send you what's included, the timings and the price in writing.

Overview

A quad is the quickest way to get a feel for how big Erg Chebbi really is. We start with a short briefing on the controls and on riding in sand. Then you follow your guide out of the village and into the dunes. The guide picks the line and sets the pace, so all you have to think about is riding and looking around.

One hour is a good first go. You'll have time to get used to the quad and ride out to a viewpoint in the dunes. Two hours takes you deeper into the erg, over more varied ground, with a longer stop on top of a dune. Never ridden before? That's fine. The guide adjusts the route and speed to whoever in the group has the least experience.

Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon if you can, when the sand is cooler and the light is softer. A lot of people add sandboarding or a sunset camel trek on the same day. If you can't decide between a quad and a buggy, our quad vs buggy guide sets out the differences.

Highlights

Guided quad ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes
Choose 1 hour or 2 hours
Safety briefing and helmet provided
Fine for beginners, the guide sets the pace
Morning, afternoon or sunset departures

Key details

Duration: About 1 or 2 hours of riding, plus time for the briefing
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon. In summer, stay off the dunes in the middle of the day, the heat out there can be extreme.
Meeting point: At the quad base in Merzouga or Hassilabied, or at your accommodation on the edge of the dunes. We'll tell you exactly where when we confirm.
Transport: We can arrange a transfer from your accommodation in the Merzouga area if you ask.

Included

Quad (one per driver, or shared with a passenger where allowed)
Helmet
Safety briefing
Guide leading the ride

Not included

Transfers from outside Merzouga, unless agreed
Drinks and snacks
Tips for the guide (optional)

What to bring

Closed shoes
Long trousers and long sleeves to keep off sun and sand
Sunglasses or goggles, plus a scarf to cover your face
Water
A pocket or bag that closes properly for your phone

Age, safety & accessibility

You'll get a helmet and you must wear it. Stay on the guide's line and keep your distance from the other quads.
The operator sets the minimum age for driving a quad, and we'll confirm it when you book. Children can only ride as passengers with an adult where that's allowed.
No alcohol before or during the ride.
Not suitable if you're pregnant, and not a good idea with back or neck problems. It can get bumpy.
Summer heat on the dunes is fierce, so ride early or late and drink plenty.
Tell us straight how much riding you've done, so the guide can pick the right route and speed.

Booking conditions

You're sending a request, not making an instant booking. We'll confirm availability, start time and number of quads by WhatsApp or email.
Strong wind or a sandstorm can delay or cancel a ride. If that happens, we'll offer you another time or a refund under our cancellation policy.
Let us know how many of you will drive and how many will ride as passengers.

Cancellation policy · Booking terms

Photo gallery

Frequently asked questions

Can I go quad biking in Merzouga if I've never ridden one?

Yes. Most of our riders are beginners. You get a briefing before setting off, the quads are easy to handle and the guide keeps the pace comfortable for everyone.

Is 1 hour or 2 hours of quad biking better?

One hour is enough for a first taste and a viewpoint in the dunes. With two hours you go further into Erg Chebbi and get more riding in once you've found your feet.

Can children ride a quad?

The operator sets the minimum age for drivers and we confirm it when you book. Younger children can sometimes ride as passengers with an adult, where that's allowed. Just put their ages in your request.

What's the difference between a quad and a buggy?

You ride a quad like a motorbike, and it's more physical. A buggy has two seats side by side and a steering wheel, which most couples find more comfortable.

Quad, buggy & 4x4
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